#Advanced Email Marketing Course

[mehmetyildizmelbourne-blog]

Substack Mastery Book: Chapter 14

How to Add Interactive Educational Programs Using One of the 6 Globally Recognized Tools to Inform, Educate, Inspire, and Retain Your Subscribers Dear Beta Readers, Thank you for your feedback so far. You honor my content on multiple platforms. I understand this chapter may seem quite technical to beginners, as I designed it to benefit advanced freelance writers and content entrepreneurs who…

[famousparadisepizza]

[theonlyonesora]

The Quiet Equation

Toto Wolff x You

The leaves had just begun to change—burnt orange and brittle gold curling at the edges of Harvard Yard—when he walked into your life like an equation that didn’t balance.

You were seated in the third row of Maxwell 202, your laptop open, fingers idly tracing the rim of your coffee cup. It was your first lecture of the semester, an advanced seminar on sports business leadership, a course you’d only taken because you craved something challenging. Something unfamiliar.

You didn’t expect him.

Toto Wolff.

He entered the room not with fanfare but gravity—like a planet arriving into orbit, unannounced yet impossible to ignore. Six foot five, dressed in a charcoal cashmere sweater and slacks that looked tailor-made for his long, deliberate strides. His accent curled around his words like silk-wrapped steel. Every student in the lecture hall straightened unconsciously. A few whispered. A few stared.

But he didn’t scan the room for admiration. No, he scanned for curiosity. For sharpness. For minds worth his time.

And when his gaze landed on you, it stayed there half a second too long.

You looked away first. You always did.

.

You weren’t used to being noticed.

At 27, you’d already earned your master’s in engineering, and now you were folding into a second program focused on organizational strategy. Most people thought you were a scholarship kid who studied too hard. Maybe you were. You liked silence, liked order, liked the click of logic falling into place. You liked data because it never lied.

But now, data had a voice, and it came in the form of a man twice your age with sharp eyes and a voice like dark chocolate and gravel.

And then came the email.

Subject: Extra Credit Assignment—Mercedes-AMG F1 Guest Lectures You were one of three students selected. Three.

To assist Mr. Wolff during his time as a guest lecturer.

.

The first time he said your name, it was late afternoon. The sun had begun to dip behind the old stone buildings, casting the seminar room in an amber glow. You had just finished walking him through an analysis of cross-market brand loyalty between Formula One and other global sports franchises.

“Brilliant,” he said, like the word meant something ancient and reverent. “But you already knew that.”

You swallowed. “It’s just data.”

Toto tilted his head, studying you. “No. It’s the way you see it that matters. You find meaning in numbers the way others find it in poetry.”

You flushed. You hated that. He was too perceptive. Too calm. You liked your walls. He was already walking through them like they weren’t even there.

.

Over the weeks, something began to shift.

He stayed after class longer. Asked you questions no one else would dare ask—about why you never raised your hand, about how you learned to think the way you did. About what you were really afraid of.

He listened when you spoke, not just with attention—but with intention. As if every sentence from you deserved space to unfold.

And you?

You began to crave it. That space. That steady, quiet pull of him. The way he stood too close without ever touching you. The way he would call your name lowly in passing—never inappropriate, never unprofessional, but still enough to echo in your stomach long after he left the room.

There was an age difference, of course. Twenty-four years. But it didn’t feel like that.

It felt like… depth. Like gravity finding gravity.

.

One night, well past midnight, you stayed behind after a guest seminar to help him with a data model. The others had left. The building was quiet, shadows climbing the bookshelves. The glow from his laptop cast him in silver light, jaw tense, brow furrowed as he reviewed your notes.

“You’ve done this before,” he said softly. “Built something and never taken credit.”

You looked at him. “What makes you think that?”

“Because you remind me of myself. At your age.” He paused. “Hungry. Brilliant. Lonely.”

That word landed like a pebble in still water.

You didn’t respond right away. Then, quietly: “I don’t mind being alone.”

“No,” he said, watching you. “But maybe you’d like someone who understands it.”

You turned your head to meet his eyes—and the room, the night, the world—it all shifted. Everything suspended.

His hand didn’t move first. Yours did.

And when his fingers closed around yours, it wasn’t the beginning of anything reckless.

It was the beginning of something inevitable.

.

You never told anyone.

Harvard whispered, as universities always do. But there were no scandals. No rumors. Just the quiet glances exchanged in the corners of classrooms, the subtle shift in your breath when he entered a room.

And on the last day of term, he handed you a folded note with only two lines written in his precise, deliberate hand.

You are the most elegant mind I’ve ever met. Come to Brackley this summer. We have work to do.

You stared at the signature beneath it.

Toto.

Not Mr. Wolff. Not Professor.

Just Toto.

And for once in your carefully structured life, you didn’t hesitate. You were already packed.

Maybe part 2 ?

[heavenlyakin]

cw: doflamingo x female reader, power dynamics (doffy is a CEO and reader is his assistant), drug use and mention, nfsw content, smut: mutual masturbation, age gap (reader is mid to late 20s and Doffy is 45). Selfship coded I GUESS IF I MUST. unedited.

wc: 2200

The job was hard, perhaps impossible for some. Your employer was demanding in ways you never imagined someone could be, but you found you were always up for the task. Whether it was getting his coffee, forging his signature because “his hand is tired”, fetching his dry cleaning, or blocking a fling from entering the building after he’d ruined them. None of these things felt like what you’d signed onto with the job description, in fact very little of that ever got done because of him. 

However, you couldn’t lie and say you didn’t love every minute of it. The adrenaline you’d get when he’d send you out to find something impossibly specific or when someone fucked up and you got to watch as he broke them down into a smaller person than before. Maybe it was sadistic of you, but you enjoyed being the only one he could rely on fully. 

Perhaps that’s why he always kept it professional with you. You’d seen him take many people back to his office, heard the moans of pleasure and pain, but never you. Not that you craved it, but something about it did make you wonder why he’d never made advances on you when he’s fucked half the marketing department, the entire billing department, and who knows who else in the company. 

He hasn’t made it in yet today. It’s Monday, the first of the fiscal year and important business to be taken care of budget wise. You’d already reviewed all the projections and assumed he’d be satisfied, but this is one thing he always reviewed himself without delegating it solely to you. So you sent him an email asking him where he was. All you got back was a winking emoji. 

You rolled your eyes and sat back, taking a sip from the cold coffee you’d gotten him this morning thinking he’d need it. It was futile, of course. He went out last night you assumed and can only imagine what he got into. At least he was alive and still in a good mood to respond. He’d be in at any time, so you sent another assistant off for a coffee run. 

“Do not mess this up,” you emphasized holding out a blue sticky note with the order written in a red sparkly pen you’d chosen for today. 

“I won’t,” the insularity in her voice irritated you, but you let it go. It was her ass if she messed it up.

Doflamingo knew you’d never mess up his coffee order. Or his taxes. Or his numerous lunch orders. You were basically perfect at your job. Just apparently not perfect enough to warrant an invitation to his bed. 

You shook your head again, this had to stop bothering you. It hadn’t until recently. You’d been with Donquixote Industries for a little over a year and never considered sleeping with the CEO before the last few weeks. Walking in on him masturbating at his desk yesterday hadn’t been the trigger but the fuel to this desire. Perhaps it was when you’d attended his beginning of summer party last week and watched him on the grill, or when he’d laid out on the table and had everyone doing lines of cocaine off his chest. 

You can still remember what his skin felt like when you laid your hand on his side to stabilize you as you snorted the coke from his peck. It burned, hotter than any other time you recall. He’d laughed and cheered when you’d taken the line, calling out you were his assistant. Perhaps the smack to your ass didn’t help either. 

It was hard watching him take some foolish girl off upstairs in his mansion. It was harder hearing about it the next Monday at work. It was a game to some employees, they kept count of his triumphs and made bets on who was next. They’d quit betting on you about three months in when he hadn’t even made a move. It hadn’t bothered you then, in fact, it thrilled you they’d lost a bunch of money betting you’d fuck Doflamingo. You’d won some betting against them because you knew you had no interest. 

Now you felt like you’d missed out. Which was silly! Your worth to him was more than a one night stand, and you realized that. It just didn’t make you want it any less. 

“Where’s my coffee?” Doflamingo’s gruff voice drags you out of your thoughts and you sigh. 

“That idiot hasn’t come back with it yet. I’ll go-” he waves. 

“It’s fine. I had one on the way,” he informs you. “Join me for the budget meeting in five, I want someone there who’s actually read the damn thing.” 

“Of course you haven’t,” you sigh. 

“I glanced.” His smile is infectious. You’d expected too much of him this morning. 

You grab a few pens in different colors, a notebook, and your laptop and follow him to the conference room. He opted for a creamy white suit this afternoon, a pink dress shirt underneath with a matching white tie. It was too hot for that awful pink coat he seemed to love in the winter. Though, it would look good with this outfit, you noted. 

He sits at the head of the conference room, you taking a seat to his right. He opens up his own laptop and the budget pops up. 

“So you did read it,” you roll your eyes and he grins. 

“I’m not as incompetent as you think.” This time, you roll your eyes. 

The board files in, one by one they take their favorite places at the table and vote to approve the budget for the year. Some other business comes up that seems to irritate Doflamingo, but you just take notes and wait for it to end. Once it does, you let everyone file out before you. There’s no meetings scheduled here today, so you plan on finishing your notes before returning to your desk. 

“Meet me in my office,” Doflamingo walks out after saying it, almost as if it was an afterthought. 

So much for getting these minutes typed up. You gather your things and pop over to his office. You’re able to drop your things off at your desk since it’s just outside his massive room. It looks out across the city, a beautiful view during all seasons of the year. However, this summertime view is your favorite. 

You pull out the small notepad you kept, getting ready to take down whatever it is he needs. 

“Did you have fun at my party last week?” He asks casually, motioning for you to move to sit at the sofa on the right of his desk. 

You shut the door behind you, and sit down. He sits on the sofa across from you. “It was fun, I enjoyed myself.” 

“What about yesterday?” His eyes narrow on you. “You were in the office on aSunday, which is unlike you. It’s the one day you take completely to yourself.” 

You swallow, your mouth drying. “I forgot my phone charger.” 

“Why did you come in here?” 

“I didn’t think you would be here, honestly. It’s hard enough convincing you to show up on a regular basis.” 

“Don’t insult me now,” he isn’t enjoying the banter you’re trying to push.

“I didn’t see anything, I’m sorry-” 

“Are you sorry?” He asks and suddenly it feels like your first day all over again. You are nervous and frankly a bit scared of the man in front of you. 

You’d landed this job right out of grad school, hoping it would be a good transition for you into a PhD program, but the pay was so nice that you hadn’t even looked a second time at the application. So here you were. 

“Kinda,” you look away from his gaze. 

“At least you’re being honest,” he leans back on the couch. “Did you enjoy the show? You stood there for quite some time.” 

“I did not,” you frown and squeeze the pen in your hand. The sound of cracking plastic fills the air. “I left immediately.” 

“Two minutes, at least. You grinned too. I saw it.” He moves his hands from his thigh to over his crotch. “Did you enjoy it? You never answered.” 

“I-” your mouth feels like the Sahara. 

“Lean back,” he orders and you do, dropping the pen and notepad on either side of you. “Uncross your legs.” 

If you do that he’d see you’re not wearing underwear. 

“Do it.” He doesn’t raise his voice or change his tone, but you feel more inclined. 

You uncross your legs and spread them slightly, giving him a clear shot of your cunt. He lets out a low growl noise that does nothing good to you. He unbuttons his pants, unzips the zipper and slowly rubs his hands up the length of his cock through the black underwear you see peakingout. 

“I think you deserve the full show. What do you think?” 

You can’t speak. You want to watch. You don’t want to watch. You can’t think, you’re just frozen sitting there across from your boss. 

“That’s as much of an answer as any,” of course he would think that. 

He reaches over to the table beside his couch, pushing a button and you watch as the drapes close around the glass windows around the office. No one can see in or out. He pushes his pants and underwear down just enough to free himself. You stop yourself from biting your bottom lip as he takes his cock in his hand. 

He’s tall, so much taller than anyone you’ve ever known. So of course, he’d be big. You’d spent more time thinking about it this last week than you’d like to admit, but seeing it yesterday and now again today is making you burn with desire. 

“You don’t have to be so quiet,” he strokes himself again and you feel your cheeks heating up more and more. 

“I don’t-” 

“Touch yourself,” he grins, looking at you with something you’ve never experienced before from him. 

“I-” 

“Do it or get out,” he tells you and your eyes widen. 

You pull your skirt up your thighs more and move your hand between them. You’re already wet, but you knew that.

“That’s better,” he throws his left arm up on the back of the couch and tilts his head just slightly to the right. “I knew you’d have such a pretty little cunt.” 

You gasp and then moan as your finger grazes your clit. “Fuck,” you let the word fall from your lips as you close your eyes. 

“No, no, no. Open your eyes. Watch me as I watch you.” 

Your eyes snap open and you watch as he jerks himself off and you play with your pussy. He doesn’t moan, but you hear a few grunts pass through the air towards you. You pull one foot up onto the couch, spreading yourself open more and pushing two fingers into yourself. 

“You are horny,” he chuckles. “I’d thought you were when you didn’t wear any underwear today, but look at you. Spread out so pathetically in front of me.” 

You don’t have the energy to argue with him, because he’s right. This has gone better than you’d imagined with him. Maybe he’s not fucking you, but he’s fucking his fist and thinking about you while he watches. 

You moan louder as you pump your fingers into yourself and use your other hand to rub your clit. Doflamingo lets out a moan, to your surprise. He grins as you catch his eye and tosses his head back. 

“You’re gonna cum when I tell you to, got it?” 

“Yes sir,” you moan and feel the build up there and just pray you can when he tells you. 

You just need a little more. Just a little more. You close your eyes and aren’t told to open them again. A thud makes you open them back up and suddenly he’s in front of you on his knees, crawling closer and closer. 

“Are You ready to cum on my face?” He asks and you nod eagerly. 

“Oh please,” you pull your fingers out of you and he replaces them with two of his. 

His fingers fill you up, thicker than yours and so much longer. You whimper as you adjust to them. His tongue attacks you with precision. You bite down on your fist to keep from screaming as he stimulates your clit and fucks you with his fingers. 

“Cum,” his warm voice vibrates against you, and you do. 

You let go and cum on his fingers and tongue. He laps at you as he slowly pulls his fingers out. Your legs shake as he pulls away and he grips your thighs. Something wet and sticky spreads across your left thigh from his hand, and you realize he came into it and is now squeezing your thigh. 

“That’s a mess,” you sigh. 

“That’s all you have to say now?” He laughs, sitting back on his heels. 

You grin and lay back on the couch. “Maybe I should just quit and file a sexual harassment case instead?” 

“Too bad I’ll recall every detail of you cumming on my face as a rebuttal. Is that what you want? The whole world to know you’re a desperate whore for your boss?” 

You shake your head and laugh. Maybe not today, then.

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

Second Chance 2

Warnings: non/dubcon, and other dark elements. My username actually says you never asked for any of this.

My warnings are not exhaustive but be aware this is a dark fic and may include potentially triggering topics. Please use your common sense when consuming content. I am not responsible for your decisions.

Characters: Jonathan Pine

Summary: You move into your parents’ house as you try to rebuild your life, catching the attention of someone you never expected.

Part of the Brother’s Best Friend Universe

As usual, I would appreciate any and all feedback. I’m happy to once more go on this adventure with all of you! Thank you in advance for your comments and for reblogging.

The next day, you acquiesce to your mother’s whims. There was rarely a time when you could deny her and the times you did, had her often reminding you of your ‘rebellious’ teenage years. You don’t bother to mention that wearing black and not wanting to hold her hand in public wasn’t much of a rebellion.

You just have to remember that this isn’t about you. Tandi doesn’t yet know the storm she’s marrying into. You’ll let her have her grace period before it truly sets in. It could be seconds, it could be months, but eventually, your mother will turn the screw.

You walk behind the pair through the crowded rows of the farmer’s market. They almost seem to forget you but that doesn’t bother you. You prefer it.

They stop at the soap booth and the battle of scent threatens to trigger a migraine. You hold your breath until Tandi finishes her purchase; some body scrub and a piece of soap that looks like a fruit parfait. Your mother opts for her own collection of cinnamon heart soap bars. You wonder where she’ll hide them as she only ever allowed white items in the bathroom; down to the soap and the shampoo.

“Do you have friends coming for the party then?” Your mother asks as they stroll along.

“Uh, yes, hopefully they can make it,” Tandi answers, “work and all that.”

“Of course, that’s understandable but it’s a very important event,” your mother chirps back, “do you have something to wear? You would look marvelous in rose.”

“I have some options,” your brother’s fiancee flick her hair back. “I was thinking it might be nice to do a brunch, rather than a dinner.”

“Oh, that’s wonderful. And of course,” your mother pauses, peering back over her shoulder as she recalls your mournful existence, “we can help.”

“That’s so sweet,” Tandi purrs.

“Well, you know, we haven’t much going on.”

You frown. It’s an obvious jab at your current predicament. It isn’t as if you haven’t been trying. You filled every open job posting you can find and haven’t heard back from a single one. Yet, your mother would never believe you to be helpless, just lazy.

“I’m going to find the bathroom,” you mutter but neither seems to hear or care.

You break away from them and delve into the crowd. You feel desolate in the roiling crowd. You don’t miss Ransom, or Hugh, or whatever he wanted you to call him that day, you just miss having someone else. Someone by your side to face the outside world. 

He never really was that, was he? You just convinced yourself he was. He settled for you and you thought that was good enough. You made yourself believe you were good enough.

You find the bathrooms and hide inside. You don’t need to go, you just need to get your shit together. You take out your phone and put on your rationed data so you can check your emails. Junk, junk, junk… ‘Invitation to Interview’. Huh.

You quickly scroll and scan the email, not wanting to waste the data. It’s nothing special, nothing as glorious as your previous job. It’s a customer service role at the local travel planner, a vibrant business among the burgeoning retirement community. It’ll have to do.

You flip the switch to disconnect from the network and emerge to wash your hands. You make your way back into the market and search among the tides. You wander in circles until you find the duo. They sit at the cafe bar in the corner, drinks in front of them, and a set of half-eaten scones. They didn’t wait for you or even think to grab you something.

You shrug it off. You think you might have been wrong. Again. Your mother isn’t going to bulldoze this daughter, no, Tandi is going to be the daughter she never had. Jaydon always was her favourite; the infallible baby boy.

💋

You accept the invitation. The pay is barely above minimum wage and the role is tedious but it’s all you’ve got. You don’t tell your parents, not wanting to disappoint them. It would be better to surprise them with good news, not let them down with another failure.

You find the nicest skirt you could salvage in your hasty retreat from the city. You sneak out through the back as the rest of the house delights in their perfect fairy tale. You’d rather have a stuffy interview than to bear another day of fake smiling and dulled blades aimed at your throat.

The agency isn’t very far. The bus takes you to the core of the town and your heels click down the half-block to the storefront painted with palm trees and beach umbrellas. You peek inside before you enter and check the information on your phone just to be sure. You’re early.

A woman named Brenda greets you and tells you to wait in the seats meant for clients. You fidget as the clock ticks in the quiet office until she finishes with the old couple at her desk in the tight cubicle. They leave, happy, and she invites you back.

It isn’t anything beyond the usual; what will you bring to this job? When’s a time you had to be spontaneous? How would you handle a disgruntled customer? You recite the acceptable answers and at the end, she offers you the job. You don’t think it’s because you’re anything exceptional but judging by the two-hundred days the posting’s been up, there hasn’t been much interest. You both are ready to take the first thing that comes along.

She sends you off with a smile and you try not to let your fake one fall before you’re out of the office. Out of the sight of the windows, you let your shoulders drop and sigh. It’s good news, you got a job, but somehow you think your parents will find a damper. ‘How much does it pay? What do you do? Oh, that’s a starter job.’

Well, dad, mom, I am starting over. I fucked up. I built nothing but a disaster.

You round the corner and stumble as suddenly you hit a wall you don’t expect. You stagger until you’re caught by firm hands around your upper arms. You gulp and your eyes round as they meet another pair, blue and bold. Jonathan grins as he issues an apology and your own tumbles off your tongue.

“I wasn’t… looking,” you murmur.

“Quite alright,” his hands linger on your arms and you wriggle. “Neither was I.”

He laughs at himself and you look down at his hold on you. He squeezes before he lets go and drops his hands to his side. He tucks them into his pockets. He’s dressed effortlessly in a pair of gray slacks and powder blue pullover.

“Special occasion?” He wonders as he looks you up and down.

You peek at your skirt. It’s nothing special. Pinstripe, black, pencil cut. It doesn’t fit you the way it used to. You think Ransom noticed that too…

“Job interview,” you shrug.

“Oh, exciting. So when do you hear back?”

You rub your neck and sway. He’s just being nice. He’s always been polite, on the outside, but you saw the antics he got up to with Jaydon. He always had that charming grin for your mother but never hesitated to cause chaos with your menace of a brother.

“You don’t have to ask. Really. It’s not a big deal.”

“Mm, well, what if I genuinely want to know?” 

There he is, that oppositional twerp. You blow out between your lips and smile, “I got the job. It’s at the travel agency so… big whoop.”

“Big whoop indeed,” he remarks, “I’d say we should celebrate with a drink but I’d also say you sound like you need one. Desperately.”

You meet his eyes again. You squint. Was he always this handsome? Or is that another trick of time? You pack on some love handles and you look chronically tired, but his lines only refine him, his age becomes him.

“That’s nice but I should head home.”

“Why? So you can listen to Jay brag about his convertible? Even I’m over that. He’d do better with something economic but he always knows best, doesn’t he?”

You scoff, “wow, sounds like you had quite the reunion.”

“Well, time changes us all,” he says, “but you always were more fun to drink with.”

[femmefatalevibe]

any tips for getting into copywriting?

Learn the basics of copywriting & writing fundamentals/ marketing skills

Study the different types of copywriting (web/banners, email, social, ads, direct mail, sales letters, etc.)

Decide on your niche(s). Study everything you can about the industry, trends, latest news, customer demographics/psychographics, customer behavior, types of lifestyles/preferences they have, how they speak, where they spend the most time (IRL or digitally)

Craft an inspiration folder full of compelling copywriting examples you find when browsing on the web, going through your email, scrolling on social media, billboards, magazines, direct mail, etc.

Practice rewriting these examples with your own flair. Evaluate it, and keep practicing until you're proud of your copy.

Be as concise, clever, and convincing as possible. Keep your tone conversational (write like how you would speak), catchy, simple, and witty. Take out any extraneous or fluff words. Pepper in cultural references, puns, and relatable anecdotes understood by your target audience when relevant to your messaging/CTA

Create a portfolio with these mock-ups or projects done for family/friends (state they're spec work, not client-commissioned samples) or clips from an internship, school work, etc.

Craft a USP for yourself (including your niche, copywriting specialties, and the specific expertise you offer within your broader niche/service offerings that makes you unique)

Create an Upwork profile and share your services on LinkedIn (optimize both of these profiles)

Research local clients and small businesses within your niche. Also, take time to create a list of dream clients. Study their copy, brand voice, and keep tabs on updates regarding these companies' happenings

Learn the art of a cold email/LinkedIn pitch/Upwork proposal. Introduce yourself and your services to your prospect and share with them how you can fulfill a specific need they're seeking out (For local and smaller companies, feel free to offer suggestions. With more established companies, connect the dots as to why your experience/expertise is a great fit for their brand/target audience), and attach your work/link to your LinkedIn profile, website, and any other relevant hub for your professional services & content

Ask for referrals from friends/family to get started. If they're not a relative, get a testimonial to include in your portfolio

Follow up once if you haven't heard back from a prospective client after an initial pitch after a few days

Search for potential gigs on sites like Upwork/ProBlogger/People Per Hour

Once you land a gig, execute to the best of your ability and hand in your work by the deadline (strategies surrounding best business practices is a whole other post, lol)

Gather testimonials from all clients of successful projects. Confirm with clients whether you can use their work in your portfolio if you're unsure

Continue studying copywriting from books, courses, and everyday reading & living

Stay knowledgeable about advancements/updates in your field, keep updated on current events, and culture/social trends, and read a lot in general. Have interesting, multi-faceted conversations with others. Observe what makes people tick & remain engaged in a verbal dialogue or content

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Michael P. Hill at NewscastStudio:

Multiple sources have indicated to NewscastStudio that Allen Media Group will begin the process of “hubbing” weather forecasts for its local stations from the Atlanta facilities of its Weather Channel property. The group, which owns around 36 stations in mid-sized to small markets across the country, has already been quietly cutting a variety of jobs in recent days, including managers, anchors and forecasters. The next step, according to multiple insider sources who requested anonymity because the plans are not public yet, is to start producing weather segments for stations from The Weather Channel. Christina Burkhart, a forecaster at WJRT in Flint, Michigan, has also gone public with claims that her station’s parent company will cut “all local meteorologists company-wide.” She posted a message saying so as a public Facebook post.

NewscastStudio has reached out to a general information box for Allen Media Group for comment. The company does not list a public email address for media inquiries and its “press release” section of its corporate website is listed as “coming soon.” It’s not clear what the exact timeframe for these changes might be if they take place; there is an “on-camera meteorologist” listing on the Weather Channel’s careers page, but it’s not clear what specific role this might be for and it’s also possible the network might produce them using existing staffers. This isn’t the first time that a station group has attempted to “hub” its weather operations. Other groups, including Sinclair Media Group, have tried it in the past and some stations have also experimented with having a forecaster from a sister station handle forecasting segments on a day when no other local staffers are available due to illness, time off or staff shortages.

[...] Overall, cutting forecasters at every station would likely come in at about 100 jobs nationwide, assuming each property has at least two to three weather staffers.  Thanks to advances in remote production and work setups, the notion of producing local weather forecasts hundreds or thousands of miles a way is more feasible than ever. Computer systems already exist that allow anyone with a computer terminal and compatible software access near real-time maps, conditions and other data for any market in the U.S. Of course, creating a weather hub does mean that talent likely won’t be as familiar with local happenings, pronunciations, geography and weather patterns, though at least some of that knowledge could be transferred. It’s also likely that forecasters at the hub would be assigned to appear on the same group of stations as often as possible in order to build rapport with viewers.

Allen Media Group stations are eliminating weather departments by hubbing it out. This is a very bad sign, as lots of local area weather expertise has been jettisoned.

[digitalfuturix]

Best Digital Marketing Courses Online & Offline (Beginner to Pro)

Introduction

In the moment's world, everything is going digital — shopping, literacy, and indeed how businesses grow. That’s why Digital Marketing Courses have become one of the stylish chops to learn in 2025. Whether you’re a pupil, job candidate, business proprietor, or freelancer, knowing how to sell online can help you make a great career

The stylish part? You do n’t need a fancy degree. You can take simple, practical courses — online or offline — and come job-ready in just a few months.

In this blog, we’ll talk about the top digital marketing courses, what they educate, and how to choose the right bone for you.

Why Should You Learn Digital Marketing in 2025?

1. It’s in High Demand

Nearly every business needs people who can help them grow online.This means Further jobs and career openings.

 2. It Offers Many Career Choices

 It Offers numerous Career Choices You can become an SEO expert, social media director, content pen, or indeed start your own marketing agency.

3. It’s Easy to Start

You do n’t need any special background. Anyone can learn it — indeed if you’re from trades, commerce, or wisdom.

4. Work From Anywhere

You can work from home, join a company, or freelance with clients from around the world.

What Do You Learn in a Digital Marketing Course?

utmost courses cover the main corridor of online marketing

SEO( Hunt Machine Optimization) – How to rank websites on Google1.

Google Ads – Running paid ads on search and YouTube

Social Media Marketing – Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn promotions

Content Marketing – Writing blogs, captions, and articles

Email Marketing – Sending newsletters and updates to customers

Affiliate & Influencer Marketing – Earning money by promoting products

Analytics – Measuring your online performance

Website Building – Learning tools like WordPress

Top Online Digital Marketing Modules

1. Google Digital Garage – Fundamentals of Digital Marketing

Free course from Google

Great for beginners

26 simple modules

Earn a certificate from Google

2. HubSpot Academy – Digital Marketing Certification

Free course focused on content, SEO, and email marketing

Short and easy lessons

Includes a certificate

3. Coursera – Digital Marketing Specialization

Offers in-depth learning from top universities

Good for intermediate learners

Includes Google Analytics, content, and social media

Paid, but high value

4. Udemy – The Complete Digital Marketing Course

Budget-friendly

Lifetime access

Covers Facebook Ads, SEO, email, and more

Best for those who want hands-on projects

Best Offline Courses in India

1. Digital Futurix – Digital Marketing Course (Thane)

If you're in Thane, Digital Futurix offers offline and hybrid digital marketing courses training with real projects and tool-based learning.

Why Choose Digital Futurix:

Live classroom learning

One-on-one mentorship

Freelancing guidance

Internships and certifications

2. NIIT Digital Marketing Program

Classroom-based training

Available in many cities

Offers strong support and certification

3. DSIM (Delhi School of Internet Marketing)

Available in major cities

Advanced-level training

Good for serious learners

Online vs Offline Digital Modules : Which is Right for You?

When it comes to learning Digital Advertising, you have two main options: online or offline (classroom-based) courses. Both have their own benefits, and the choice depends on your personal preference, learning style, and schedule.

Online Courses

Online courses are perfect if you want to learn at your own pace. You can study from anywhere — whether you're at home, at work, or even traveling. These courses usually include video lessons, quizzes, and downloadable materials. Many platforms also offer lifetime access,

so you can revisit the lessons anytime. Online courses are generally more affordable, and some are even free.

Best For:

Working professionals

College students

People with busy schedules

Those who prefer learning independently

Offline Courses

Offline or classroom-based courses are great if you prefer face-to-face learning and personal guidance. These classes often provide real-time help from trainers, live projects, and team activities. You also get more opportunities to ask questions, network with other students, and practice your skills hands-on.

Best For:

Beginners who need step-by-step guidance

Students who want personal mentorship

People who find online learning difficult

Those who want to build confidence with group interaction

Tip:

If you want the flexibility of online learning but still want some personal support, look for hybrid courses. These offer online classes with regular live sessions, Q&A calls, and assignments — combining the best of both worlds.

Career Options After a Digital Marketing Course

After your course, you can work in roles like:

SEO Executive

Social Media Manager

Google Ads Expert

Content Writer

Digital Marketing Executive

Freelance Marketer

You can even start your own small agency or personal brand.

Top Tools You’ll Learn

Google Ads

Meta Ads (Facebook/Instagram)

Canva (for design)

Mailchimp (for email)

WordPress (to build websites)

ChatGPT (for content)

Google Analytics

Who Can Do This Course?

Students – Want to start a career

Professionals – Looking to upgrade skills

Business Owners – Want to grow online

Homemakers – Can work from home

Freelancers – Want to earn from different clients

How to Choose the Best Course?

Before enrolling, ask:

Is it beginner-friendly ?

Does it offer certificates ?

Are there real projects and case studies ?

Do they help with placements or freelancing ?

What do past students say ?

Conclusion

Learning digital marketing  Whether you prefer online learning or face-to-face classes, there’s a course out there for you. These programs are designed to fit different learning styles, schedules, and career goals—so you can begin at your own pace and level. From mastering the basics like SEO and social media to diving into advanced strategies like performance marketing and analytics, you’ll gain the skills that employers and clients are actively seeking.Best Digital Marketing Classes In Thane

As the digital world continues to expand in 2025, the demand for skilled marketers will only grow. So, take the first step today—invest in the right course, stay consistent, and watch your digital career take off.

Start today — your digital future is waiting! 

[armandssilkshirt]

Wip wednesday, for a fic I’m tentatively titling: such sweet sorrow

I haven’t written fic for a big fandom like this in years atp and I don’t know how to navigate fandom space anymore! Anyway!

-

The plane ticket arrives in a sleek, cream envelope, inscribed with his name and nothing else, written out in neat, precise block capitals. Daniel takes note of several things immediately, of varying levels of importance and with varying degrees of incredulity:

The Vampire Armand knows his address, and either hand delivered the ticket himself, or puppeteered one of his neighbors or delivery guys into doing so on his behalf. By extension, either he was close by, or has been in near enough vicinity to get someone else to do his bidding, just waiting to ruin Daniel’s perfectly good Tuesday afternoon. It occurs to Daniel, too, that the plane ticket is Armand purposefully tipping his hand. The likelihood that he’s still around, watching him receive his spontaneous gift right now through a goddamn crack in the wall or some other gross invasion of privacy, is significantly greater than zero. He always did like to see a plan through to the end, after all. This is unlikely to be the exception.

The timing of the ticket itself is also more than disquieting, and not likely to be a coincidence. Daniel signed off an all his last approvals two days ago, and is now waiting on his publisher and agent to get back to him with details about the proposed marketing campaign and book tour, as well as hear back from the designer’s mock up for the cover, which he can comment on, but not, apparently veto. In publishing, Daniel has long learned you need to pick your battles and let the book speak for itself. Everyone’s going to think he’s clinically insane anyway, who cares if the art department intern who gets shoved this job gets a little carried away with it. Anyway—Daniel’s work is mostly done, and from here till the promotional calendar, it’s pretty much dead time. Armand has been listening. As far as ‘Congrats on completing your book!’ presents go, Daniel’s had better but he’s also had worse, too—his ex-wife served him divorce papers after his last one—so Daniel will take the plane ticket, actually. And Armand knows that if he’s going to take a vacation, now would be the time to do it. He wonders if his emails are accessible, or if Armand’s just been playing it old-school, standing on his balcony listening to him bitch out his editor, instead. He supposes he should be grateful that he’s been allowed the short lull beforehand, and that the ticket is booked a week in advance, enough notice to tie up any loose ends in New York that he might need to attend to. Considerate, really, Daniel has to admit.

All of which is to say, of course, that any illusions Daniel had been laboring under about the safety of his own home—the ignorance is bliss attitude he’d adopted since he’d stumbled through his front door two months ago, still shaking the Dubai wall dust off his shirt—are shattered. He’s attracted an undead stalker, and you can’t exactly take a restraining order out on those guys. It’s a bitch, because Daniel really did like this apartment, too. Even if Armand isn’t here to kill him—the plane ticket seems to suggest he at least has a different location in mind—that isn’t to say some other vampire won’t try to beat him to the job, and decide to turn his living room into a morgue as some sort of warning if/when he happens to not be at home. Maybe he should drape a sheet over his couch. He’s spilled enough red wine over it to know it stains like hell.

Charles De Gaulle airport is unexpected, but in a split second retrospect, he guesses it shouldn’t be. Obviously, Armand wants to rehash the story, spin his own series of events, even if he was too late to try to edit the first book, and he’s dramatic enough to want to walk the streets he spilled with blood while he does it. Daniel hasn’t been to Europe in a while. He remembers Paris in October as being beautiful; the turning of the leaves running crimson and orange through the city, cool and crisp but not yet so bitter as to be unpleasant. He could have picked worse places to stage his temper tantrum. Daniel can also understand him wanting to get out of the metropolitan maze of Dubai, and the penthouse that might as well have been a prison tower, though for whom, Daniel’s now not sure.

Which brings him to the shock of the ticket itself, and Armand’s unwelcome but now obvious presence in his life. When Daniel picked up his few belongings and high-tailed it out of the penthouse before any more rubble could fall on his head, literally or figuratively, Armand had been hunched in on himself, tucked against the baseboard, plaster hanging like teardrops onto the black of his eyelashes. Even with the baleful look in his eyes, he’d seemed, to Daniel, like a boy—suddenly forced to stop playing dress up and close the costume-box lid. Smaller, younger, both fearful and indignant at his newfound nakedness. Ready to lash out, of course, but also on the precipice of caving in. An unstable death star. Perhaps it would have been too easy, but he’d wondered if Armand might, as one last act of self-sacrificing spite, find himself a fire to throw himself into, hoping to haunt Louis as Lestat did. He’d even been half-expecting it. That he didn’t is almost more concerning. It suggests that Armand has unfinished business. If it’s with Daniel, for ruining his shambolic supernatural marriage, then Daniel supposes Paris is as nice a place to die as any. Hopefully Armand will dispose of his body efficiently. He’d hate for his daughters to have to pay for posthumous repatriation. That would be a terrible reason to go into credit card debt.

Lastly, with an almost amused observation, he notes that the handwriting on the envelope is not the same as the writing in the margins of the script he flung down like a hand grenade on that table weeks ago. Armand’s writing there had sprawled across the page, the loops of his cursive proving to be his noose. That he’s decided to adopt a new style is unsurprising. As a professional chameleon and an evidenced control freak, it makes sense that Armand would pay attention to details enough to change this aspect too. This is Armand reinventing himself; a signifier of the new start he’s trying to establish and the distance he’s trying to put between himself and his past crimes. In comparison to the writing on the script, this new style is careful, takes up little space, and is officiously self-aware. Deceptively nondescript. It almost makes Daniel laugh. Armand’s relying on him knowing who the envelope is from anyway, so the change in signature is nothing but set-dressing.

Well, not quite—the very last thing he observes, with some belated horror and disappointment aimed squarely at himself—is that immediately, Daniel knows he’s going to take the ticket. It’s barely a conscious decision. There’s precedent, of course—he’s already jumped on a plane in an ongoing pandemic to go on an ill-advised research trip. Armand could be reasonably sure he’d roll the dice and go for another. He tries to argue with the part of himself that screams it’s the height of stupidity to take another risk in exactly the same way, that, actually, staying would only be shoving his head in the sand. He’s made himself a target, or he’s about to when publication rolls around, and Armand might turn out to be the least of his problems, in the long run. Why not see what he wants in the meantime? And besides—isn’t it better the Devil you know? 

[studylustre]

hi carol! i hope you're doing well! if you don't mind, can you tell your journey transitioning into ux? like how you got started, how long did it take you to learn etc. i'm interested in ux after a class i took one semester but i'm always too afraid to explore more. i'm also a psych graduate so seeing another psych graduate in the ux field is nice. thank you in advance!

from: a lost 25 year old.

hi hi!! 🥰 as a disclaimer, i'm no expert and i'm still v much at the beginning of my ux journey, but i'd be more than happy to talk about my career transition to give you an idea of what it was like!

when i decided to make the leap, i enrolled into a google ux design course on coursera and earned some certificates. after a few months, i realised that whilst i wanted to be in ux, design wasn't really my forte and i started looking more into the writing side of things - i've always loved writing and reading and so this felt like a much more natural fit. thankfully, my previous experience working in marketing came in really handy bc even though i wasn't always doing strictly ux-related work, there was a lot of crossover with the things i had worked on. for example, because i was responsible for our user-facing communications, i planned and delivered everything from our emails and in-app messages to our blog posts, social media content, website pages and more. that has a big overlap with ux writing because you have to consider similar things, like:

clarity - is the messaging and cta clear to everyone who will read it?

conciseness - is the copy as short and to the point as it can be? (people don't like to read, so this was v important especially when it came to writing out in-app messages and emails as there's limited screen space)

conversational - is the copy "natural"? is it using every day language?

so as you can see from the above, i was able to take a lot of my previous experience and apply it to a ux context. i also had a few examples of ux work from my time in the marketing role that i was able to highlight in my portfolio. this is a v important asset if you're planning to apply for a ux role. you need to have a portfolio to even be considered for a role. i recommend having at least 2-3 case studies on your portfolio to show as examples of your work.

after that, it was just a case of applying and hoping to hear back from companies. i won't lie, this was the hardest part and was often really discouraging because there were times where i wouldn't hear back at all, or i would be turned away after the first or second interview. job hunting absolutely sucks, even if you have experience, so as a junior it was really challenging. eventually though, i was lucky enough to be hired into a role that really interested me and i've been working in a ux writer ever since!

if you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to message me and i'll be more than happy to share as much advice as i can! i hope this helped even a little. career transitions are a tough and often lengthy process but it's so worth it. i'll be rooting for you! 🤍

[cakeforyou25]

Srishti Campus: Your Digital Marketing Destination

Srishti Campus stands out as a leading institute for digital marketing, offering courses tailored to meet industry demands. With a comprehensive curriculum, it covers essential areas like SEO, social media, content marketing, email campaigns, and analytics.The institute is guided by a team of expert faculty, ensuring students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Hands-on training through live projects and real-world tools prepares students to excel in the competitive digital marketing industry.Srishti Campus also provides placement support, connecting students with top employers, and offers flexible learning options for convenience. It’s the perfect place to launch or advance a career in digital marketing.

[saasyobm]

SaaSy OBM High Level Training

Highlevel Training: The SaaS-y OBM Advantage

In the fast-paced world of SaaS businesses, staying on top of tasks and delivering exceptional client experiences requires a strategic approach. That’s where a SaaS-savvy Online Business Manager (OBM) shines. With Highlevel training as a cornerstone, these professionals become indispensable partners in scaling operations and optimizing workflows. They achieve this by setting up robust automation systems, creating efficient sales funnels, and leveraging data analytics to make informed decisions that support sustainable growth.

What is Highlevel Training?

Highlevel training equips OBMs with the skills to master GoHighLevel, a powerful SaaS platform designed for agencies and businesses. GoHighLevel provides tools for managing client relationships, automating workflows, and streamlining marketing efforts, making it an essential platform for efficiency and growth. GoHighLevel offers an all-in-one solution to manage client relationships, marketing, sales funnels, and automation. For OBMs, learning to navigate and leverage this platform means streamlining operations and delivering results efficiently.

Why OBMs Need Highlevel Training

The role of an OBM goes beyond basic task management. A SaaS-savvy OBM oversees systems, implements automation, and ensures seamless team collaboration. Highlevel training amplifies these abilities, enabling OBMs to:

Set Up Automated Workflows: Save hours by creating workflows for recurring tasks like client onboarding and email follow-ups.

Optimize Funnels: Build, test, and refine sales funnels to boost conversion rates.

Enhance CRM Efficiency: Use GoHighLevel’s CRM tools to track leads, nurture relationships, and improve client retention.

Streamline Communication: Integrate messaging systems that keep teams and clients on the same page.

The SaaS-y Edge

OBMs trained in Highlevel bring a competitive advantage to SaaS businesses. For example, a recent survey revealed that businesses leveraging GoHighLevel automation saw a 30% reduction in operational costs. This advantage stems from their ability to integrate technology with strategic planning, ensuring both efficiency and scalability. They align technology with business goals, making operations more agile and results-driven. This alignment ensures that businesses can scale without stumbling over inefficiencies or missed opportunities.

Real-Life Applications of Highlevel Training

Client Onboarding: A SaaS company faced challenges in onboarding new clients efficiently. An OBM with Highlevel training revamped the process by automating welcome emails, task assignments, and follow-up reminders, reducing onboarding time by 40%.

Marketing Campaigns: An agency struggled with tracking the performance of multiple campaigns. Using GoHighLevel, their OBM consolidated all campaign data into one dashboard, enabling real-time insights and faster adjustments.

Team Collaboration: By integrating communication tools within GoHighLevel, an OBM eliminated scattered emails and miscommunications, improving project delivery timelines.

How to Get Started with Highlevel Training

For aspiring SaaS OBMs or those looking to enhance their skill set, Highlevel training is a must. It provides the foundational knowledge needed to effectively manage complex systems, automate tasks, and deliver seamless client experiences, which are critical for success in the SaaS industry. Here’s how you can dive in:

Enroll in Online Courses: Platforms like Udemy and Skillshare offer beginner to advanced courses tailored to GoHighLevel.

Attend Webinars: GoHighLevel frequently hosts live sessions to showcase new features and best practices.

Leverage Community Resources: Join GoHighLevel user groups or forums to exchange tips and learn from seasoned professionals.

Practice Hands-On: The best way to master the platform is through real-world application. Offer free trials of your services or work on personal projects to build confidence.

Benefits of Hiring a Highlevel-Trained OBM

If you’re a SaaS entrepreneur or agency owner, partnering with an OBM proficient in Highlevel is a game-changer. Here’s why:

Time Savings: Delegate complex tasks and focus on growth.

Cost Efficiency: Streamlined operations mean reduced overhead costs.

Improved Client Satisfaction: Automation ensures timely responses and consistent service.

Scalability: With systems in place, scaling becomes a breeze.

Final Thoughts

Highlevel training transforms OBMs into powerhouse professionals who drive efficiency and growth for SaaS businesses. Whether you’re an OBM looking to upskill or a business owner seeking operational excellence, investing in this training pays dividends. With the right expertise, you can turn your SaaS dreams into a thriving reality.

Take the leap into the future of business management with Highlevel training. Explore online courses, join user communities, and practice hands-on to unlock your SaaS-y success story!

[sherlynnxy]

‘The Impact of Social Media Bans on Chinese Users and Global Connections’

MDA20009 Digital Communities

Hello everyone, this is our last post T^T! To my course mates, the semester has come to an end, hope you all had a great holiday! Also, an early 🎄Merry Christmas❄️ to everyone!!!

The quick spread of social media around the world has brought people and communities together. However, some countries maintain restrictive media environments that make it difficult for people to use these platforms freely, with China being a good example. The Chinese government has implemented strict censorship measures to control news, social media and online communication. The ‘Great Firewall’ prevents users from accessing popular platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Google services. Despite these restrictions, millions of Chinese users have found ways around these barriers, raising significant questions about how censorship affects lives, national identity and global connectivity. This raises important questions about how these restrictions shape individual lives, national identities, and broader networks of global interaction.

Understanding the Great Firewall

According to Britannica, the Great Firewall (also known as the Golden Shield Project) is a key component of China's Golden Shield Project, combines regulatory and technological measures to censor and monitor internet usage (Gisonna, 2024). It employs tools like keyword filtering, bandwidth throttling, and Deep Packet Inspection to block specific content. This system not only restricts foreign platforms but also pressures journalists through dismissals and arrests, fostering self-censorship. As journalist Evan Osnos observed, China's digital links to the world are increasingly deteriorating, emphasizing its isolationist internet policy.

U.S. technology in China

China's restrictive policies make it challenging for U.S. tech companies to compete, with platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Google blocked. To illustrate, in early 2013, Google withdrew its services after several conflicts with Chinese censorship, and in late 2014, China disabled Google's email service Gmail, which raised concerns at the U.S. State Department (Xu, 2017). Furthermore, in early 2014, Google chairman Eric Schmidt indicated that encryption could facilitate entry into the Chinese market for Google. However, these plans encountered a challenge in March 2014 when the government took action against the social networking app WeChat. The government's decision to crack down on the social networking app WeChat to the deletion of the accounts of several prominent political liberals. Subsequently, new regulations were announced for 'instant messaging tools' on mobile chat apps, such as WeChat, which has over 750 million users and is increasingly seen as a platform for mass dissent that can bypass censors (Xu, 2017). Gmail’s ban and the crackdown on politically liberal accounts on WeChat demonstrated the government’s tightening control.

Social Media Censorship: How does it work?

The Great Firewall of China employs sophisticated methods to enforce internet censorship and block unwanted content (Xu, 2017):

Network Blackholing: A fundamental technique involves maintaining a list of banned IP addresses. If a user attempts to access a prohibited site, the connection is immediately dropped, effectively severing access to restricted content。

Quality of Service (QoS) Filtering: This advanced approach employs deep packet inspection to analyze data traffic and identify connections attempting to bypass censorship through Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). QoS filtering intercepts these connections before they reach their destination, undermining one of the primary tools users rely on to circumvent the firewall.

Domain Name System (DNS) Hijacking: DNS hijacking disrupts the mapping of IP addresses to website names, preventing users from accessing flagged domains. Social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter are systematically targeted, ensuring that only approved alternatives like Weibo and WeChat dominate the market.

URL Filtering: URL filtering involves the use of proxies to examine requested web addresses for banned keywords. This precise control allows authorities to selectively block pages on platforms like Wikipedia, allowing access to general content while censoring politically sensitive topics.

To learn more about how social media censorship works, here are the views shared by Karoline Kan, a Beijing-based journalist and writer:

The Impact of China's Social Media Censorship

Positive Impacts: Government and Domestic Industry Benefits

From a government perspective, the Great Firewall serves multiple purposes. It blocks access to foreign platforms such as Google, Twitter and Facebook, which were blocked as a result of uprisings such as the 2009 Xinjiang riots. The government is trying to maintain political unity and national security, by limiting access to other forms of governance and lifestyles, Firewalls have also helped Chinese internet companies like Tencent, Baidu, Alibaba and Weibo to grow and succeed without competition from international rivals. This approach to cyber-sovereignty is often seen as a way of protecting national stability (Kannan, A. 2017).

Negative Impacts: Limitations on Innovation and Freedom

From the Chinese citizens perspective, these restrictions pose significant challenges to entrepreneurs, influencers and professionals in accessing global markets and networks, thereby stifling business opportunities and cultural exchanges. Strict government control of online content hinders dissent and creative freedom because users know that surveillance is everywhere. As a result, many people use VPNs to get access to blocked content, but these methods are not foolproof and can be blocked. Some have opted for more advanced tools such as Tor or SSH tunnelling, but these are not for everyone (Xu, 2017).

Despite these challenges, Chinese internet users have found alternative ways to get around the firewall. For instance, tools like Ultrasurf, Psiphon, and Freegate let users set up proxy servers, and microblogging platforms like Weibo have become places for people to talk about things they would normally be banned from discussing. On top of that, over the years, internet users have created a whole range of visual puns, memes, acronyms and slang to get around the censorship, which has transformed online spaces into complex arenas for political and social debate (Xu, 2017).

Global Implications

Censorship not only affects China, but also reshapes global digital dynamics. The fragmentation of the Internet, where users from different countries are often separated into different cyberspaces, limits cross-cultural dialogue and global collaboration. For international brands and content creators, the Chinese market holds great opportunities, but navigating these constraints is often too complex, leading to missed opportunities. On a larger scale, China's digital isolation has exacerbated geopolitical tensions, leading to a growing digital divide between China and the West (Kannan, A. 2017). These tensions complicate international diplomacy and exacerbate the fragmentation of the global digital ecosystem.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, China's 'Great Firewall' is a sophisticated and multifaceted approach to internet censorship that has a significant impact on the online environment for Chinese citizens. While the firewall helps the government keep political stability and protect domestic industries, it also stifles creativity, limits global connectivity, and hinders free expression. Chinese users are creative in finding ways around the restrictions, but these policies contribute to the fragmentation of the global digital landscape and exacerbate geopolitical tensions. Ultimately, censorship policies greatly affect China's digital ecosystem and its interaction with the global community.

Reference:

Gisonna, N. (2024). Great Firewall | History, China, Hong Kong, & Facts. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Great-Firewall

Kannan, A. (2017). Here’s why the Great Firewall of China has benefited the country. Young Post. https://www.scmp.com/yp/discover/your-voice/opinion/article/3066603/heres-why-great-firewall-china-has-benefited-country

Silva, M. (2019).China social media censorship: how does it work? BBC. https://www.bbc.com/news/av/stories-49527899

Xu, B. (2017). Media censorship in China. Council on Foreign Relations. https://www.cfr.org/backgrounder/media-censorship-china

[diya00000000]

Top Skills to Learn in 2024: Elevate Your Career with These In-Demand Abilities

In 2024, the job market continues to evolve rapidly, shaped by technological advancements and shifting workplace dynamics. To stay competitive, it’s essential to develop both soft skills and technical skills that employers value. This article explores the top skills to learn in 2024 and provides actionable tips on incorporating them into your job applications to boost your career prospects.

Soft Skills: A soft skill is one that is applicable to all occupations. They are generally more concerned in how you interact with others and manage the job. In other words, these are teamwork, work ethic, work style, or interpersonal skills. These abilities not only allow you to be more adaptable in your business, but they also benefit your personal life. Soft skills are very important to modern employers, and career coaching may help you learn how to improve your soft skills and discover areas where you can improve.

Communication

Effective communication abilities continue to be the most desired attribute by employers. Clear presentations, correspondence, and teamwork are ensured by effective communication, which encompasses both written and spoken abilities.

Why It’s Important: Clear communication fosters teamwork, reduces misunderstandings, and enhances productivity. How to Develop It: Join public speaking clubs like Toastmasters, practice writing concise emails, or take online courses on communication.

Analytical Thinking

People who can analyze data, approach problems logically, and come up with creative solutions are sought after by employers. In professions involving decision-making, analytical thinking is essential and enhances technical abilities.

Why It’s Important: Analytical thinkers can navigate complex challenges and offer data-driven insights. How to Develop It: Engage in activities like puzzles, logic games, or courses on critical thinking and problem-solving.

Project Management

With remote and hybrid work environments becoming the norm, project management skills are indispensable. These include planning, organizing, and overseeing projects to achieve goals efficiently.

Why It’s Important: Successful project managers ensure timely delivery, manage budgets, and lead teams effectively. How to Develop It: Earn certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) or take online courses on project management tools like Trello and Asana.

Leadership

Leadership goes beyond managing a team — it’s about inspiring, motivating, and guiding others toward success. In 2024, inclusive and empathetic leadership is particularly valued.

Why It’s Important: Strong leaders foster a positive workplace culture and drive organizational growth. How to Develop It: Volunteer for leadership roles, mentor others, or study leadership styles through books or courses.

Adaptability

The pace of change in today’s world demands professionals who can adapt quickly to new technologies, roles, and environments. Adaptability is the key to thriving amid uncertainty.

Why It’s Important: It shows resilience and a willingness to embrace change, both critical traits in dynamic industries. How to Develop It: Push yourself out of your comfort zone by taking on new challenges or cross-functional roles. Technical Skills: The Backbone of Modern Careers

Generative AI Generative AI tools like ChatGPT, DALL·E, and Bard are revolutionizing industries. Professionals skilled in utilizing these tools for content creation, problem-solving, and data analysis are in high demand.

Why It’s Important: Generative AI enhances efficiency and creativity, making it a must-know for almost every sector. How to Develop It: Explore AI tools and complete online certifications in AI fundamentals and machine learning.

Data Analysis

Data analysis involves interpreting raw data to make informed decisions. From finance to marketing, data skills are essential for extracting actionable insights.

Why It’s Important: Companies increasingly rely on data to optimize operations and improve customer experiences. How to Develop It: Learn tools like Excel, SQL, Tableau, or Python for data analysis through platforms like Coursera or Udemy.

Software Development

The ability to design and develop software is critical for tech-heavy industries. With constant innovations, software developers are at the forefront of technological advancement.

Why It’s Important: Software drives automation, apps, and enterprise solutions that businesses depend on. How to Develop It: Start with beginner-friendly programming languages like Python or JavaScript, then build your portfolio by working on real-world projects.

UI/UX Design

UI/UX design ensures user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing digital experiences. Businesses are investing heavily in UX to retain customers and enhance brand loyalty.

Why It’s Important: Good design is the foundation of successful websites and apps. How to Develop It: Master tools like Figma, Adobe XD, and Sketch, and study UX principles through industry blogs and courses.

Web Development

Web development remains a cornerstone skill in the digital age. Whether it’s front-end, back-end, or full-stack development, expertise in creating robust websites is highly sought after.

Why It’s Important: Businesses need fast, secure, and responsive websites to stay competitive. How to Develop It: Learn coding languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and frameworks such as React or Node.js. How to Incorporate These Skills When Applying for Jobs

Highlight Skills in Your Resume

Create a dedicated “Skills” section to list both technical and soft skills relevant to the job. Use metrics and examples in your experience section to showcase how these skills contributed to your success. Example: “Led a team of 10 to complete a software development project 15% ahead of schedule.”

Taior Your Cover Letter

Use your cover letter to explain how your skills align with the job description. Mention specific instances where you applied these skills to solve problems or achieve goals.

Provide Evidence During Interviews

Share anecdotes or STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories demonstrating your soft and technical skills. Example: “In my last role, I used data analysis to identify a trend that saved the company 20% in operational costs.”

Showcase Skills in Your Portfolio

For technical skills like web development or UI/UX design, create a digital portfolio to showcase your work. Include case studies, designs, or live projects to demonstrate your expertise.

Leverage LinkedIn

Keep your LinkedIn profile updated with your skills and certifications. Use LinkedIn endorsements and recommendations to validate your expertise.

Conclusion The top skills to learn in 2024 encompass a mix of soft skills like communication and leadership and technical skills like generative AI and data analysis. Mastering these skills will not only future-proof your career but also make you a standout candidate in any job application process.

Remember, learning doesn’t stop at acquiring new skills—showcasing them effectively is equally important. Start by setting goals, enrolling in courses, and applying these skills to real-world scenarios. With dedication, 2024 could be your year of unprecedented professional growth!

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Digital Marketing

Digital marketing has transformed how businesses engage with their audiences. Unlike traditional marketing methods, which often rely on print media or television ads, digital marketing leverages online platforms to reach consumers where they spend most of their time on the internet. With the rise of social media, search engines, and email marketing, brands can engage with potential customers in real-time, offering personalized content and targeted advertisements that resonate with individual preferences and behaviors.

Are you looking to enhance your skills in digital marketing and stay ahead in today’s competitive landscape? Check out the comprehensive Digital Marketing Training offered by Teresa's, designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to succeed in the digital world.

This training program covers essential topics such as SEO, social media marketing, content marketing, and analytics, providing hands-on experience and practical insights. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this course is tailored to meet your needs and help you build a strong foundation in digital marketing.